Braised little gems

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/fan160°C/gas 4. Heat the oil in a large shallow casserole, then fry the bacon until it’s crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon. Add the butter. When it begins to foam, add the shallots to the pan. Soften over a low heat for 10 minutes.
2. Arrange the little gems, bacon and shallots in an ovenproof dish. Season, drizzle with any pan juices and dot with a little more butter.
3. Pour the white wine and stock over the lettuce halves, then cover the dish tightly with foil. Cook in the oven for 40 minutes or until the lettuces are tender. Stir in the cream, then adjust the seasoning to taste. Serve with crusty bread for mopping up the juices.